Marie Moloney (Labour) | Oireachtas source

Yes, but they are temporarily residing outside of it. Perhaps the Minister will clarify that issue in her response.

I agree with Senator Mooney that child benefit should not be paid in respect of children living outside the State. In such cases, the parents should be eligible for payment in the state in which the child is residing. Ireland's relatively high rate of child benefit offers an incentive to people to claim it in this country. The Minister will undoubtedly respond that this is in accordance with EU law and we have no choice but to continue these payments. However, if we must give such payments, surely they should at least be given at the rate applying in the country in which the child is residing?